Papers by Daniel J Clausen
This paper challenges the historical foundation of Sola Scriptura, asserting its emergence during... more This paper challenges the historical foundation of Sola Scriptura, asserting its emergence during the 16th-century Protestant Reformation. Highlighting contradictions and the reliance on oral traditions in early Christianity, it argues that Sola Scriptura leads to private interpretation and doctrinal divisions. The paper explores the role of the Church ('Ekklesia') in governance, emphasizing a communal approach that contrasts with Sola Scriptura's individualism. It contends that the late introduction of Sola Scriptura invites historical critiques of doctrinal innovation, advocating for a holistic understanding of truth through both scripture and tradition.
This article delves into the historical transformation of the Jewish priesthood during the period... more This article delves into the historical transformation of the Jewish priesthood during the period of Roman rule, as chronicled by Eusebius of Caesarea. With meticulous exploration of primary sources, particularly Eusebius' "Ecclesiastical History," the study examines the intriguing shift from hereditary to politically appointed high priests. The focal point is the impact on the crucifixion narrative, shedding light on the intricate interplay between religious leadership and secular authority. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Herod the Great's reign, where the traditional priesthood yielded to Roman-appointed successors. The study draws parallels between the earthly priesthood's demise and the advent of Christ's eternal Priesthood, emphasizing theological implications. Beyond blame attribution, the article underscores the nuanced dynamics that led to the destruction of the Temple and the subsequent development of Rabbinic Judaism. In a reflective tone, it navigates the intersection of history and theology, offering insights into the eternal Priesthood of Jesus Christ.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present, 2022
There is a looming question of why the Ordre du Temple of the 1800s possessed an archive consisti... more There is a looming question of why the Ordre du Temple of the 1800s possessed an archive consisting of documents largely of its own time, with very little to show prior to the Grandmastership of Dr. Fabre-Palaprat.
If the Ordre du Temple was legitimate, certainly one would expect there to
be a larger documentary footprint beyond what was produced. This will be an investigation into that archive, if it existed, as well as what might have happened to it, leaving us without it today.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present, 2021
Recommended to read "Re-Examining the Larmenius Charter" in addition to this.
The Charter of Lar... more Recommended to read "Re-Examining the Larmenius Charter" in addition to this.
The Charter of Larmenius has not been considered a reliable historical document regarding a legitimate line of descent of the Knights Templar for nearly 200 years. However, renewed analysis of the Charter's contents, language, and historical correlations have reinvigorated the study of its claims in a new generation. As a result, new historical connections are now being made which may further bolster the
credibility of the Charter's narrative. One potential association with the Charter is a document known as the Avignon Decree of 1326. This Papal Bull was produced by a council of bishops assembled at the abbey of Saint Ruf in what is now Avignon, France and was adopted and enforced by Pope John XXII just two years after the reported writing of the Larmenius Charter in 1324. If a legitimate connection between the two is found to be likely, it would establish an additional primary document that corresponds directly to the narrative of the Charter.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present
For the past century and a half, Masonic Templarism has been nearly synonymous with the name Knig... more For the past century and a half, Masonic Templarism has been nearly synonymous with the name Knights Templar. If one has a notion of a modern Templar, it is probable that it is a Masonic one. The official stance of the Masonic Templars today is that there is no historical connection between the medieval Order and modern Freemasonry, 1 but was created by "Thomas Dunckerley, [who] wanted to promote a concept of chivalry and Christianity within a masonic framework." 2 Nevertheless, there is a strong undercurrent of rumor, legend, and pseudo-history that has existed for centuries that asserts a real, historical connection to the original Order. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the historical origins of Masonic Templarism based on verifiable datapoints, limited speculation, and from a perspective uncolored by Masonic favor.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present
The seemingly sudden appearance of the Ordre du Temple in 1804 under Bernard-Raymond Fabré-Palapr... more The seemingly sudden appearance of the Ordre du Temple in 1804 under Bernard-Raymond Fabré-Palaprat was a shocking event. Claiming to be a direct line of continuation from the medieval Knights Templar via the Larmenius Charter, the response to its public reveal was a mixture of intrigue and skepticism. Stories circulated that the Order was falsely restored by Fabre-Palaprat through the purchase of a dresser at auction that contained the papers of the former Grandmaster Louis-Hercule Timoleon, which included the Larmenius Charter and the 1705 Statutes. This paper examines the evidence for this claim.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present, 2021
The Larmenius Charter is easily the most controversial artifact of the modern Templar movement. A... more The Larmenius Charter is easily the most controversial artifact of the modern Templar movement. As the only purported line of documented continuation from the historical Order of the Knights Templar, it was supposedly written or commissioned by Jean Marc Larmenius in 1324 as a transfer of his Grandmastership due to age. Interest in its origins and potential authenticity has never been lacking. This paper challenges the accepted narratives of the Charter.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present, 2021
Among the various rumors and claims that exist in the lore of the Order, one
common refrain is th... more Among the various rumors and claims that exist in the lore of the Order, one
common refrain is that Emile Isaac Vandenberg, after having transferred the Archive of
the Order to Portugal in 1942 to Antonio Fontes for safekeeping in WWII, asked for the
Archive back, but Fontes refused. Then, when Emile Isaac died unexpectedly in 1943,
Fontes used his possession of the Archives to assert himself as Head of the Order.
This assertion is an odd one, because unlike other claims of problematic succession
that are given by various splits in the Order, this claim does not benefit any particular
splinter group. In fact, if it is true, it delegitimizes virtually all recognized present-day
Templar branches since they all descend through the line of Antonio de Sousa Fontes.
Antonio Fontes is one of the key links of the continuity of the Ordre du Temple of the
1800s to the present day. If Fontes Sr. falls, we all fall with him. If Fontes is illegitimate,
then we are all illegitimate and the true succession died with Emile Isaac Vandenberg.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present, 2021
The dispute regarding the 1970 election for Grandmaster in Paris. Claims of illegitimacy,
infiltr... more The dispute regarding the 1970 election for Grandmaster in Paris. Claims of illegitimacy,
infiltration of secret police forces, and a simple lack of facts color the entire episode,
leaving even a devoted researcher unable to make hard and fast conclusions.
After the election, both sides produced contradictory documents to substantiate their
claims, further obscuring the truth. Therefore, neither side can truly be relied upon for
an unbiased account of what happened.
The goal of this paper is to establish as much fact-based truth as possible so that a
reader may draw reasonable conclusions regarding the truth of the matter. While it is
possible some may dispute these findings through facts of which the author is unaware,
the reader should know that this treatise is not written with respect to a personal or
political agenda. The author is open to any new information that one may present to
amend the conclusions contained herein.
Templar Succession: Establishing Continuity 1307-Present, 2021
One of the most signifcant gaps in the chronologies regarding the continuation of the
Ordre du Te... more One of the most signifcant gaps in the chronologies regarding the continuation of the
Ordre du Temple and the modern Templar movement lies in dim period that exists from
the waning days of the late 1800s until 1932. From there we see the emergence of the
Sovereign and Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem under Theodore Covias.
In most retellings, the time of the Grandmastership of Josephin Peladan in 1892 until
the registration of name of OSMTJ are left with little comment, and yet, this period of
time is crucial to establish a legitimate continuance. Even the historicity of the
Grandmastership of Peladan is a matter of question. Peladan, famous for his voluminous
wrtings, paintings, and his fervent Catholic mysticism, has scholars devoted to his study,
and yet even they cannot verify a connection beyond doubt.
Nevertheless, in this treatise the subject of the continuation from Peladan to the 1932
registration will be attempted with every source available to the author, and will be
dealt with honestly.
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Papers by Daniel J Clausen
If the Ordre du Temple was legitimate, certainly one would expect there to
be a larger documentary footprint beyond what was produced. This will be an investigation into that archive, if it existed, as well as what might have happened to it, leaving us without it today.
The Charter of Larmenius has not been considered a reliable historical document regarding a legitimate line of descent of the Knights Templar for nearly 200 years. However, renewed analysis of the Charter's contents, language, and historical correlations have reinvigorated the study of its claims in a new generation. As a result, new historical connections are now being made which may further bolster the
credibility of the Charter's narrative. One potential association with the Charter is a document known as the Avignon Decree of 1326. This Papal Bull was produced by a council of bishops assembled at the abbey of Saint Ruf in what is now Avignon, France and was adopted and enforced by Pope John XXII just two years after the reported writing of the Larmenius Charter in 1324. If a legitimate connection between the two is found to be likely, it would establish an additional primary document that corresponds directly to the narrative of the Charter.
common refrain is that Emile Isaac Vandenberg, after having transferred the Archive of
the Order to Portugal in 1942 to Antonio Fontes for safekeeping in WWII, asked for the
Archive back, but Fontes refused. Then, when Emile Isaac died unexpectedly in 1943,
Fontes used his possession of the Archives to assert himself as Head of the Order.
This assertion is an odd one, because unlike other claims of problematic succession
that are given by various splits in the Order, this claim does not benefit any particular
splinter group. In fact, if it is true, it delegitimizes virtually all recognized present-day
Templar branches since they all descend through the line of Antonio de Sousa Fontes.
Antonio Fontes is one of the key links of the continuity of the Ordre du Temple of the
1800s to the present day. If Fontes Sr. falls, we all fall with him. If Fontes is illegitimate,
then we are all illegitimate and the true succession died with Emile Isaac Vandenberg.
infiltration of secret police forces, and a simple lack of facts color the entire episode,
leaving even a devoted researcher unable to make hard and fast conclusions.
After the election, both sides produced contradictory documents to substantiate their
claims, further obscuring the truth. Therefore, neither side can truly be relied upon for
an unbiased account of what happened.
The goal of this paper is to establish as much fact-based truth as possible so that a
reader may draw reasonable conclusions regarding the truth of the matter. While it is
possible some may dispute these findings through facts of which the author is unaware,
the reader should know that this treatise is not written with respect to a personal or
political agenda. The author is open to any new information that one may present to
amend the conclusions contained herein.
Ordre du Temple and the modern Templar movement lies in dim period that exists from
the waning days of the late 1800s until 1932. From there we see the emergence of the
Sovereign and Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem under Theodore Covias.
In most retellings, the time of the Grandmastership of Josephin Peladan in 1892 until
the registration of name of OSMTJ are left with little comment, and yet, this period of
time is crucial to establish a legitimate continuance. Even the historicity of the
Grandmastership of Peladan is a matter of question. Peladan, famous for his voluminous
wrtings, paintings, and his fervent Catholic mysticism, has scholars devoted to his study,
and yet even they cannot verify a connection beyond doubt.
Nevertheless, in this treatise the subject of the continuation from Peladan to the 1932
registration will be attempted with every source available to the author, and will be
dealt with honestly.
If the Ordre du Temple was legitimate, certainly one would expect there to
be a larger documentary footprint beyond what was produced. This will be an investigation into that archive, if it existed, as well as what might have happened to it, leaving us without it today.
The Charter of Larmenius has not been considered a reliable historical document regarding a legitimate line of descent of the Knights Templar for nearly 200 years. However, renewed analysis of the Charter's contents, language, and historical correlations have reinvigorated the study of its claims in a new generation. As a result, new historical connections are now being made which may further bolster the
credibility of the Charter's narrative. One potential association with the Charter is a document known as the Avignon Decree of 1326. This Papal Bull was produced by a council of bishops assembled at the abbey of Saint Ruf in what is now Avignon, France and was adopted and enforced by Pope John XXII just two years after the reported writing of the Larmenius Charter in 1324. If a legitimate connection between the two is found to be likely, it would establish an additional primary document that corresponds directly to the narrative of the Charter.
common refrain is that Emile Isaac Vandenberg, after having transferred the Archive of
the Order to Portugal in 1942 to Antonio Fontes for safekeeping in WWII, asked for the
Archive back, but Fontes refused. Then, when Emile Isaac died unexpectedly in 1943,
Fontes used his possession of the Archives to assert himself as Head of the Order.
This assertion is an odd one, because unlike other claims of problematic succession
that are given by various splits in the Order, this claim does not benefit any particular
splinter group. In fact, if it is true, it delegitimizes virtually all recognized present-day
Templar branches since they all descend through the line of Antonio de Sousa Fontes.
Antonio Fontes is one of the key links of the continuity of the Ordre du Temple of the
1800s to the present day. If Fontes Sr. falls, we all fall with him. If Fontes is illegitimate,
then we are all illegitimate and the true succession died with Emile Isaac Vandenberg.
infiltration of secret police forces, and a simple lack of facts color the entire episode,
leaving even a devoted researcher unable to make hard and fast conclusions.
After the election, both sides produced contradictory documents to substantiate their
claims, further obscuring the truth. Therefore, neither side can truly be relied upon for
an unbiased account of what happened.
The goal of this paper is to establish as much fact-based truth as possible so that a
reader may draw reasonable conclusions regarding the truth of the matter. While it is
possible some may dispute these findings through facts of which the author is unaware,
the reader should know that this treatise is not written with respect to a personal or
political agenda. The author is open to any new information that one may present to
amend the conclusions contained herein.
Ordre du Temple and the modern Templar movement lies in dim period that exists from
the waning days of the late 1800s until 1932. From there we see the emergence of the
Sovereign and Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem under Theodore Covias.
In most retellings, the time of the Grandmastership of Josephin Peladan in 1892 until
the registration of name of OSMTJ are left with little comment, and yet, this period of
time is crucial to establish a legitimate continuance. Even the historicity of the
Grandmastership of Peladan is a matter of question. Peladan, famous for his voluminous
wrtings, paintings, and his fervent Catholic mysticism, has scholars devoted to his study,
and yet even they cannot verify a connection beyond doubt.
Nevertheless, in this treatise the subject of the continuation from Peladan to the 1932
registration will be attempted with every source available to the author, and will be
dealt with honestly.